Dengue fever in Mexico and Central America

Dengue fever cases and outbreaks are being reported from the following countries and localities: Mexico -

• Campeche - 347 suspected and confirmed cases with 17 cases of dengue haemorrhagic fever.

El Salvador - A dengue fever alert has been issued in 58 municipalities. The most affected departments include San Salvador, Cuscatlan, Sonsonate, San Vicente, and Cabanas.

Panama - Reports of cases are increasing with over 3,000 cases nationally, with 8 deaths.

Travellers to areas where the dengue fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many persons with dengue fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities. There may be many more cases in the community than the reports indicate.